Earl Radenz

Earl Grover Radenz, 94, a man with a heart of gold, a twinkle in his eye, and a mischievous sense of humor, was born to Charles and Florence Radenz in West Chicago, Illinois. After the death of his parents in 1921, his Aunt Pet and Uncle George Lawler in Topeka welcomed him and his brother, Stanley, into their home and raised them as their own. Chubb, as he preferred to be called started his career life at the age of twelve, when he was a soda jerk, delivery boy, and the first carhop in Topeka, all while working at Hoover's Drug Store. His young age, eager demeanor, and charming smile netted him many tips, which he eventually loaned to Mr. Hoover to purchase a fancy stainless steel soda fountain. In 1922, Chubb and Stan built one of the first radios in Kansas and both became ham radio operators. After graduating from Topeka High School, Chubb worked many years as a salesman with W.A.L. Thompson Hardware in Topeka. During this time, WWII erupted and Chubb proudly performed his patriotic duty by serving in the U.S. Army. Later he and his wife, Betty, found great pleasure starting their own business as merchants, which lasted until 2002. Chubb was preceded in death by Betty, his best friend and beloved wife of 54 years, and by his brother, Stanley. He is survived by his loving daughter, Penny and her husband, Terry Dudding. A man who was genuinely kind to and respectful of everyone he met, Earl Radenz will be forever remembered as a loving husband, caring father and father-in-law, and a true gentleman. A service honoring the life of Earl will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Burial will follow in Penwell-Gabel Memorial Park Cemetery. Online condolences may be left at www.penwellgabel.com.